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Former X Factor finalist Christopher Maloney has said he'd be up for returning to The X Factor.

It's after the singer, who now runs his own talent academy in Liverpool, was contacted by producers of this year's show to invite students at the classes he runs to audition.

Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, Christopher revealed he had "politely declined" the offer but says he would be up for returning to the series himself.

"I’m a much more confident person and performer now, and I’m certainly more aware of how the show is run and what I would be letting myself in for!” he told the newspaper.

Christopher, who finished in third place back in 2012, went on to explain: “It was a huge learning experience, highlighting just how naive I was when I entered the competition.

"To me it was just that, a singing competition. You have no idea of the bigger picture - from the influence of the media, the backstage antics, the whole circus that envelops you once you step into The X Factor process. I would certainly appreciate the gift of hindsight if I was to do it all over!”

Meanwhile, asked for advice for future wannabes on the show, Christopher said: "Simply work hard, focus, spend as much time rehearsing as you possibly can to polish that performance.

"And most importantly stay grounded and just be yourself. Don’t change who you are for anyone – not even Simon Cowell.”